University Police offer Halloween safety tips

The University Police at Western Washington University have issued the following tips for staying safe on Halloween:

• If you go to a costume party, go with a group of friends you know and trust.
• Always carry a photo ID, and make sure your friends carry identification and phone numbers with them in case they become incapacitated for any reason.
• Consider your costume, and avoid wearing one that inhibits your ability to see and move freely. Use special caution when crossing the street, and be sure motorists see you before you cross.
• Some people who want to cause harm may take advantage of being unrecognizable in a Halloween costume . Stay in an environment where you can easily get help or move away from someone who is threatening your safety. Be aware of your surroundings.
• If you are intoxicated, your impaired judgment places you at a much greater risk for injury, unwanted sexual contact, or a police citation. Set a drink limit for yourself and stick to it. (Or plan not to drink alcohol at all.)
• If you accept a beverage from someone, make sure that you know the individual, you have observed the drink being prepared, and you never leave it unattended. Exercise caution in any public setting with any beverage.
• Consider having an alcohol-free Halloween party. Supply friends with food. You don’t have to go anywhere and it costs less!
• Make a plan to get home safely. Make use of the WWU Student Shuttle or have a designated driver.
• Call University Police at (360) 650-3555 if you see a safety concern on campus.